What is Broadband?

Written by: DirectGlobal - Nov 18, 2008

Broadband, also known as 'wideband', is a term used to compare frequency bandwidth. These broadband frequencies can transmit more data and at a higher speed than narrowband frequencies. Broadband is capable of carrying multiple voice, video or data channels simultaneously. Each "channel" will take up a different frequency or specific time slot on the cable. 'Guardbands', or empty spaces, exist between the channels to make sure that each channel does not interfere with the other.

Broadcast television, cable television, microwave, satellite, wireless phones and other communication devices are examples of broadband technologies. These technologies are capable of carrying a great deal of information in a short amount of time. Cable television (CATV), broadband describes the ability to carry 30 or more TV channels and is synonymous with wideband.

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